This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. A muscle overload prevented Neymar from playing for Santos against Mirassol, at a time when Carlo Ancelotti, the Brazil national team coach, was preparing to observe him. The player's absence, which once again coincides with his sister's birthday, has sparked a wave of criticism from the press and fans. With less than 100 days until the World Cup and already dealing with the absence of Rodrygo, Ancelotti intensified his observation schedule to define the attack for the Canarinha. The Italian coach had planned to watch the Santos game to assess Neymar's form, one of the most celebrated players by Brazilian fans and a major figure still active in football. However, the plans were thwarted by an injury that sidelined the forward. The timing coinciding with his sister's birthday, a pattern that has repeated over the years and has become a recurring theme in the football world, led to harsh criticism of the Brazilian star. In light of the controversy, Neymar turned to social media to express his frustration. In an ironic tone, the player lamented the difficulty of pleasing public opinion. "There are many people creating theories about what happens to me. Nothing is going on. If I play injured, it's wrong. If I take care of my health, it's wrong. If I play in pain, it's wrong. It's very hard to get it right," he wrote. "What surprises me the most is these people who seem to be with me every day and start inventing stories. It seems they have the absolute truth," he added. The Santos forward, who has not yet commented on a possible call-up for the Brazilian national team, concluded with a phrase that reflects his state of mind: "It's very hard to be me. My God… I have to have too much patience."
Carlo Ancelotti World Cup remains central to this story.
Carlo Ancelotti World Cup remains central to this story.
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